RCA Balanced In-Line XLR Attenuator

Here's the solution to a problem far too many audiophiles suffer from: too much gain in the system. The symptoms are easy to spot: the volume is loud enough with the volume control set to the 9 o'clock position, too loud at 10 o'clock, and fine control at low levels is impossible.

This may seem like a minor irritation, but it compromises the system's performance. Although potentiometers work reasonably well over most of their operating range, they are notoriously problematic at extreme settings. The most apparent problem is channel imbalance - one channel will fade out (or fade in) quicker than the other, causing the stereo image to shift to one side - but on a more subtle level, the music may sound veiled and indistinct with the volume control turned down to the point where it is nearly off. Some people have tried to fix the problem by installing a more expensive volume control, only to find it doesn't do much. That's because the volume control isn't the problem.

The real problem is the system’s excess gain, which forces you to always use the volume control over a very limited portion of its travel. What you need is a way to reduce overall system gain without compromising sound quality or significantly modifying the equipment itself.

The Rothwell In-Line Attenuators are the answer. These audiophile devices plug into any input sockets and reduce signal levels by 10dB (effectively halving the volume). They work with integrated amps or pre/power amps and are compatible with equipment across the price spectrum, from budget to extremely high-end.

When used with integrated amps (plug them into any input sockets, then plug the source component into the attenuators), the volume control will be two or three "hours" further around its range than before, giving better control at low levels and keeping you well away from the end stops. It also has an added benefit when used with pre/power amps.

Two versions are available:

• -10dB
• -20dB 

PRICE (pair)
£80.00 +vat +p&p